Three-dimensional models are set to make Townsville City Council’s development application process easier than ever.
Council has created 3D maps of the CBD, Strand, South Townsville and West End after securing $77,000 through the Queensland Government’s Innovation and Improvement Fund.
Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said the 3D modelling would assist with decision-making around future development proposals by visualising how they would impact the city.
“By creating 3D models of the city, Council is hoping to improve the way in which we assess development applications, and the ability for developers and residents to see the potential impacts of a proposal,” Cr Hill said.
“Esri Australia have completed these models on behalf of council and have been working with other cities throughout Australia and internationally.
“What we’re really looking for is a way to get the best planning outcomes for the city and to ensure every application that comes to council is assessed quickly.
“This technology will also help us meet our planning scheme requirements and to efficiently address any potential impacts of a proposed development.”
Queensland Treasurer and Planning Minister Cameron Dick said the Innovation and Improvement Fund has helped councils across the state improve their planning systems.
“Efficient and improved planning systems to enable appropriate development will be even more vital as we move forward with our economic recovery,” Mr Dick said.
“We know there will be tough times ahead for the Queensland economy, and that’s why we are delivering a comprehensive economic recovery plan that focuses on creating jobs and getting Queenslanders back to work.
“3D models of the city will allow council, developers and the community to see how new proposals might impact the city.
“As a result, this technology will streamline the application process to get projects happening faster and jobs created sooner.”
Planning and Development Committee chairperson Les Walker said there are plans to create 3D models of the entire city.
“We have started by creating a model of the areas where there are a high number of applications coming through for new developments, and the hope is to expand this to the rest of the city,” Cr Walker said.
“We expect these models to assist in all aspects of the development application process, including modelling for natural disasters and allowing residents to see visual representations during the public notification process.
“I’m looking forward to seeing how these models improve the planning process and to see how we can continue to use this technology across Council.”
